Joseph T. Joseph

Joe Joseph, 90, passed away February 8, 2015 at Select Specialty Hospital after a short illness with his family at his side. Joe was born on November 29, 1924 to Thomas and Philomen Joseph. He lost his father at an early age and his uncle, Peter Joseph, assumed the father figure role in his life. Joe grew up in St. Albans and South Charleston and graduated from Charleston Catholic High School. At the age of 18 he entered the army to serve in World War II. He was stationed in Europe where he served with the Medical Corps tending to wounded soldiers prior to them being sent for further treatment. Upon returning from the army in 1946, he became involved in various family business ventures before starting Valley Plumbing Supply which he operated for many years. After closing his business, he continued to stay active working at various jobs until he was 80 years old. In his last position he was known as “Pops” to his co-workers. In 1951 he married the former Nazira Neccuzi and they started a long and blessed life together. They raised four sons in addition to promoting and being very involved in a large extended family. Joe was a dedicated family man. He attended and supported all of their activities. He was always leaning on the fence at the baseball games and in the bleachers at the basketball and football games. There were many trips to the beach, picnics at the parks, and large gatherings at the house. We will never forget how he would shout “Dig in!” after leading the group in the blessing before Thanksgiving dinner. If he found out you were working on a project he would show up to help. He was always there with unconditional love and support. He set a wonderful example for everyone on what a family is about. His words were few but very meaningful. Instead of giving a big speech to one of sons going off to college he said something that will always be remembered: “Don’t do anything you can’t be proud of.” Joe’s strong Catholic faith was a driving force in his life. In 1999 he and his wife Nazira received the St. Anthony Lifetime Achievement Award for their service to the parish. This was in recognition of their tireless efforts that included fund raising events, cooking, ushering, coaching, and general fix-it support for the church and school. He was the first one called when something broke down. He also served on the Parish Council and was a member of the Finance Committee. He was a hard worker every day of his life. He did not let the common effects of age slow him down as he would come up with a solution to address every challenge. He felt that if it was broken he could fix it. Joe never hesitated to do a favor or help one in need whether it was the church, family, friend, and even strangers. He touched the lives of many who will always love and remember him. Joe was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the American Legion. In addition to his parents and Uncle Pete, Joe was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Alice Joseph and grandson, John Michael Joseph. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Nazira Joseph, son Thomas (Kathleen) of West Chester, OH, son Albert (Marsha) of Charleston, WV, son Lawrence (Elizabeth) of Tampa, FL, son Christopher (Karen) of South Charleston, WV, eight grandchildren, four great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many others who knew him as Uncle Joe. Joe’s family would like to thank the staff at St. Francis Hospital and Select Specialty Hospital for the care they provided to him and the compassion shown to us. Mass of a Christian burial will be held Friday, February 13, at 11AM at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 1000 6th St. Charleston, WV with Rev. James Kurtz OFM Cap. officiating. Visitation will be Thursday 6-8pm at Wilson Funeral Home, 420 Lee St. West, Charleston. The online guestbook may be accessed at www.wilsonfuneralandcremation.com In lieu of flowers, the Joseph family request that donations be made to St. Anthony Church, 1000 6th St. Charleston, WV 25302. Wilson Funeral Home, Charleston is serving the Joseph family.